Description
A comforting and hearty macaroni and beef recipe that combines browned ground beef, savory tomato sauce, and tender elbow macaroni in one pot. This easy stovetop dish is perfect for a quick family dinner and can be customized with cheese and vegetables for added flavor and nutrition.
Ingredients
Scale
Meat and Vegetables
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Sauce
- 1 (15-ounce) can tomato sauce
- 1 (14.5-ounce) can diced tomatoes with juice
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Pasta and Liquids
- 2 cups elbow macaroni, uncooked
- 2 cups beef broth or water
Optional Garnishes
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- Chopped parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Brown the beef: In a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef until fully browned, breaking it apart as it cooks. Drain excess fat if necessary to prevent greasiness.
- Sauté the aromatics: Add the diced onion to the skillet and cook for 2–3 minutes until softened. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Combine sauce ingredients: Pour in the tomato sauce and diced tomatoes with their juice. Sprinkle in Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper, stirring everything together evenly.
- Add pasta and liquid: Stir in the uncooked elbow macaroni and beef broth (or water). Mix well to combine all ingredients and bring the mixture to a full boil over medium-high heat.
- Simmer and cook pasta: Once boiling, reduce the heat to low or medium-low to maintain a gentle simmer. Cover the skillet and cook for 12–15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the macaroni is tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed.
- Add cheese and garnish: If using cheddar cheese, stir it in just before serving or sprinkle it on top and cover the skillet for a few minutes until the cheese melts. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired to add freshness and color.
Notes
- You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for the beef to lighten the dish.
- Add chopped bell peppers or frozen peas to incorporate more vegetables and nutrients.
- Use beef broth instead of water for richer flavor.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated and reheated for a quick meal the next day.
